Before he was diagnosed, Gracia worked in construction and helped install large storm drains and sewer lines for the City of Austin and commercial projects.

“During this past year, his illness has been progressing faster than any other year before,” Gracia Garcia said in October, after Gracia’s doctors had told them Gracia would only have a few more months to live.

Yet, after a good day of being alert, it was a surprise when it happened, said Melinda Marble, communications coordinator with Hospice Austin.

“Season for Caring brought Marcelo and Gael so much comfort and so much quality of life these last few months,” Marble said. “To be able to provide him with a full-time caregiver was priceless. It gave Gael peace of mind.”

Season for Caring also reunited Gracia with his wife, who lives in Indiana. She was able to visit during the Christmas holidays using Season for Caring funds. Funds also will help pay for the cremation, and a burial plot also was donated.

“The community showed so much generosity to this family,” Marble said.

Gracia leaves behind son Gracia Garcia and daughter Carmen as well as grandson 4-year-old Iram, with whom Gracia had a special bond.

Gracia said in October that he was proud of Iram, and that he regretted that he wouldn’t be able to be there for more of his life.

“He still wants to see him grow,” Gracia Garcia.

Mark Wilson contributed to this report.

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